The legendary Larry McGill Rás Na hÉireann Cross Country returned to the rolling countryside of Lawlesstown, Dunleer, on Sunday February 16th, 2025, a day that was quintessentially Irish, with a light drizzle falling from an overcast sky, adding an extra layer of grit to the already formidable course.

The scenic backdrop belied the brutal challenge beneath the runners' feet – endless hills that demanded not just physical stamina but an unbreakable spirit. Boyne AC athletes rose to the occasion with heart, determination, and performances that left spectators in awe.

From the youngest debutants to seasoned runners, Boyne AC competitors gave everything on the day, delivering results that showcase the club’s ever-growing strength in the Irish athletics scene.

The under 9 race saw the emergence of a new star for Boyne AC. Young Norrie Judge, stepping onto the competitive stage for the first time, ran the 400m with enthusiasm and courage beyond her years.

Her 14th-place finish was nothing short of remarkable, but it was the radiant smile at the finish line that spoke volumes about the joy and promise of this young athlete. The future is undoubtedly bright with talents like Norrie in the fold.

In the under 11 girls’ 1200m, Stella Gow ran a spectacular race which showcased her endurance and focus with a fantastic time of 6:11, a testament to her hard work and dedication.

The boys' under 11 event was a spectacle of determination and talent. Malachy Brodigan put on a commanding performance, surging through the challenging terrain to claim a well-deserved 5th place and a prized medal. His race was defined by strength, strategy, and stamina.

Not far behind, his brother Cormac Brodigan delivered a strong run with a time of 5:25, closely followed by teammate Conor Hughes, who edged him with a 5:23 finish. This trio showcased the depth of talent within the club’s younger ranks.

The under 13 girls' 1600m saw Caithlin Hughes take on the unforgiving hills with determination and poise. She finished with a commendable time of 7:36, illustrating her growing prowess in the discipline. In the boys' under 15 1600m, Will Gow exhibited a masterclass in pacing and endurance to cross the line in 6:47.

Meanwhile, newcomer Finn O’Sullivan, competing in his first event, defied inexperience to finish in 7:09. Finn’s debut promises exciting results in races to come.

The under 15 boys' 2400m brought more excitement, with Eoin McEntee delivering a stellar performance against a deeply competitive field. His 9th-place finish reflected his determination to stay with the leaders throughout the demanding course.

In the under-17 girls' 3000m, Boyne AC's Shauna Rice delivered a strong performance to secure 4th place. Her clubmate, Seamus Keenan, competing in the under-17 boys' 4000m, showcased his ongoing improvement by claiming 3rd place and earning a spot on the podium

The senior women’s 4000m event included one of the day’s most extraordinary performances when Ailish Keenan took on what many described as “the toughest course ever” with unwavering resilience.

Her time of 20:12 was a testament to her strength and determination, as she powered through the endless hills and mud without faltering. Not only did she conquer the course, but she also secured an impressive 4th place overall in her age group, a remarkable achievement given the challenging conditions.

The day concluded with pride and celebration for Boyne AC, each runner, regardless of age or result, embodied the values of hard work and dedication that define the club. From first-time competitors to seasoned podium finishers, Boyne AC athletes made their mark on the iconic Rás Na hÉireann XC.